John and the Hole

John and the Hole

Year: 2021

Runtime: 98 min

Language: English

Director: Pascual Sisto

DramaThriller

In this gripping drama-thriller, 13-year-old John's curiosity awakens a darkness within him. After discovering an abandoned bunker, he abducts his family and seals them in the hole, unleashing a desperate struggle for survival. As they await rescue, John revels in the freedom he's always craved, but the consequences of his actions threaten to destroy everything he holds dear.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen John and the Hole yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!

Timeline & Setting – John and the Hole (2021)
Explore the full timeline and setting of John and the Hole (2021). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The film takes place in contemporary times, reflecting modern social dynamics and familial relationships within an affluent setting. This timeframe allows for a focus on relevant issues such as privilege, control, and psychological turmoil that many viewers can relate to today.

Location

suburban home, underground bunker, woods

The story unfolds in a seemingly idyllic suburban environment, marked by an extravagant home that speaks to the family's wealth. The mysterious underground bunker hidden within the surrounding woods serves as a crucial element in John's sinister plot, symbolizing both power and confinement. It contrasts the outward perfection of suburbia, revealing the darker undertones lurking beneath the surface.

🏡 Suburb 🕳️ Bunker 🌲 Forest

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:46

Main Characters – John and the Hole (2021)
Meet the key characters of John and the Hole (2021), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

John (Charlie Shotwell)

A troubled teenager, John grapples with feelings of disconnection and disillusionment stemming from his wealthy upbringing. His growing desire for control leads him to a dark path, where his curiosity turns into a manipulative quest for power over his family. John's character represents the complexities of adolescent rebellion and the consequences of seeking dominance.

👦 Teenager 🌀 Troubled 🔒 Manipulative

Brad (Michael C. Hall)

As John's father, Brad epitomizes the expectations placed on modern parenting while striving to maintain family cohesion. His vulnerability surfaces as he finds himself trapped in the bunker, revealing cracks in his authority and leadership. Through his character, the film explores the pressures faced by parents in a privileged environment.

👨‍👧‍👦 Father 😓 Vulnerable 🎭 Family

Anna (Jennifer Ehle)

Anna, John's mother, embodies the archetype of the supportive yet conflicted parent. Her struggle with the family's dynamics becomes apparent as she navigates the confines of the bunker, highlighting her emotional depth and the impact of John's actions on her psyche. Anna’s character emphasizes the complex balance between love, support, and the challenges of family life.

👩‍👧 Mother 🥺 Supportive 🎭 Emotional

Laurie (Taissa Farmiga)

As John's older sister, Laurie represents the pressures of adolescence and the sibling dynamics within a privileged family. Her character evolves in the bunker, revealing layers of strength and vulnerability. Laurie’s interactions with John become a focal point, showcasing the impact of his actions on their relationship.

👧 Sister 🤔 Strong 🎭 Vulnerable

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:46

Major Themes – John and the Hole (2021)
Explore the central themes of John and the Hole (2021), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🔒 Control

The theme of control is central to John's journey as he navigates his disillusionment with his privileged life. As he uncovers the bunker, he wrestles with his desires for power and autonomy, leading to a sinister manipulation of his family. This theme highlights the dangers of unchecked ambition and the consequences of exerting control over loved ones.

🌀 Isolation

Isolation plays a significant role as the family members find themselves trapped together in the bunker, forced to confront the emotional rifts that had been previously hidden. The confines of their underground prison amplify their feelings of desperation and tension, ultimately laying bare the complexities of their relationships.

😱 Rebellion

John's act of rebellion against his family's expectations drives the narrative forward, showcasing his internal struggle with identity and belonging. This theme underscores the thin line between curiosity and danger as he acts out against the constraints of his life, leading to a catastrophic turn of events.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:46

Similar Movies to John and the Hole
Discover movies like John and the Hole that share similar genres, themes, and storytelling elements. Whether you’re drawn to the atmosphere, character arcs, or plot structure, these curated recommendations will help you explore more films you’ll love.